Qigong as a psychosocial intervention for depressed elderly with chronic physical illnesses

Abstract

Literature uncovers that depression is common in elderly people. The problem is more serious in elderly with chronic physical illnesses. Although the relationship between physical problems and depression is well documented, the underlying mechanism is basically unknown. This article proposed after a comprehensive literature review that depression in elderly with chronic physical illnesses results from disability and a reduction in psychosocial resources. If depression is left untreated, suicide may be a consequence. In view of this, various forms of psychosocial interventions are developed based on mainstream western medicine. The authors argue that qigong, a form of Chinese therapeutics, has the effect of alleviating clinical depression and thus improves quality of life. A simple form of dynamic qigong, namely the Eight-Section Brocades, is suggested to serve the purpose. A theory which explains the psychosocial effect of qigong is hypothesized.

Effect of a qigong exercise programme on elderly with depression

“…The findings supported Tsang's model of the psychosocial effects of qigong on elderly with depression (Tsang et al, 2002). However, the causal relationship among the variables remains to be empirically verified.…”

Qigong Stress Reduction in Hospital Staff

“…Previous studies have analyzed the impact of qigong on social function and also reported that qigong improved this parameter. 12,28 On other SF-36 quality-of-life subscales, as well as sleep and vital sign measurements, there were no significant changes between groups over the course of the study. Other investigations have reported that qigong practice decreased blood pressure and pulse rate.…”

Subjective health‐related quality of life of Chinese older persons with depression in Shanghai and Hong Kong: relationship to clinical factors, level of functioning and social support

“…These are chronic health problems that can cause more disability and/or pain when compared with impaired visual and auditory acuity. These disabilities may lead to dependence and also have influenced the social and living skills, and self-efficacy of the participants, thus leading to depression and lesser life satisfaction (Tsang et al, 2002;Copsey Spring et al, 2007;Katon et al, 2007).…”